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Jeb Bush has some advice for his onetime rival President Donald Trump: “Stop saying things that aren’t true.” SIMI VALLEY, CA – SEPTEMBER 16: Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump (L) and Jeb Bush argue during the republican presidential debates at the Reagan Library on September 16, 2015 in Simi Valley, California. Fifteen Republican presidential candidates are participating in the second set of Republican presidential debates. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images/AFP Trump’s unsuccessful rival for the Republican presidential nomination says the new tenant in the White House has made “some really good appointments” and acted “decisively” on rolling back regulations — but he is very critical of Trump’s style.
“He hasn’t shifted to being president in a way that people are used to and I think that’s the problem,” Bush told the television show “Facing South Florida” on CBS Miami.
“He should stop saying things that aren’t true,” he said about Trump’s daily Twitter bursts.
“He has got a lot of work to do and some of these things -― the wiretapping, all this stuff -― is a complete distraction that makes it harder to accomplish the things I know he wants to do.”
Bush, who served as governor of Florida, is the son of the 41st president George H.W. Bush and brother of the 43rd, George W. Bush.
Asked whether Trump’s tweets diminish the office of the president, he replied, “A little bit, yeah.”
“It’s one thing to do it as a candidate,” he added. “When you are the president, your words have consequences.”
First Lady Melania Trump made the case for women’s “empowerment” at a ceremony Wednesday honoring a dozen activists who have overcome great odds to advance human rights around the world. US President-elect Donald Trump (R) and his wife Melania Trump arrive for a leadership luncheon at the Trump International Hotel in Washington, DC on January 19, 2017. Twenty-four hours before he takes the oath of office as the 45th US president, Trump arrived in Washington on Thursday, determined to transform American politics over the next four years. / AFP PHOTO In a rare public speech, Melania Trump called for an embrace of diversity, appearing as a “special guest” at the International Women of Courage event at the US State Department.
“We must begin now to challenge old fears, and fight for justice and stand up against evil and injustice wherever it may be,” she said as she paid tribute to the 13 women honorees, all but one of whom were present.
“As leaders of our shared global community, we must continue to work towards gender empowerment and respect for people from all backgrounds and ethnicities, remembering always that we are all ultimately members of one race, the human race.”
The first lady’s vocal support of diversity appeared somewhat at odds with the stance of President Donald Trump’s administration, whose “America first” worldview has often cast outsiders as a threat.
Three of the honorees Wednesday were from countries targeted by Trump’s thwarted travel ban on refugees and travelers from Muslim-majority nations: Iraq, Syria and Yemen.
Praising the strength and courage of the laureates who have fought against gender bias and discrimination, Melania Trump said it is women like them who will “ignite a global battle against inhumanity.”
“Together, with the international community, the United States must send a clear message that we are watching,” she said.
Here are key reactions and commentary following Britain’s launch of the process to leave the European Union:
– ‘Already miss you’ –
“We already miss you… There is no reason to pretend this is a happy day” – EU President Donald Tusk.
– ‘Interlinked relationship’ –
Demonstrators march onto College Green outside The Houses of Parliament at an anti-Brexit protest in central London on June 28, 2016. EU leaders attempted to rescue the European project and Prime Minister David Cameron sought to calm fears over Britain’s vote to leave the bloc as ratings agencies downgraded the country. Britain has been pitched into uncertainty by the June 23 referendum result, with Cameron announcing his resignation, the economy facing a string of shocks and Scotland making a fresh threat to break away. / AFP PHOTO
“The negotiations must first clarify how we will disentangle our interlinked relationship… and only when this question is dealt with, can we, hopefully soon after, begin talking about our future relationship,” – German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
– ‘Sentimentally painful’ –
While Brexit is “sentimentally painful” for the Europeans, it would be “economically painful” for the British. But “it is not our intention to punish (the British) for the principle” – French President Francois Hollande.
– ‘Respect’ British will –
“We respect the will of the British electorate and her majesty’s government in taking steps of departing the European Union. … Whatever future the UK-EU relationship looks like, we want the UK to remain a strong leader in Europe” – White House spokesman Sean Spicer.
– ‘Let’s stay friends’ –
“The sentence often used in private divorces, ‘let’s stay friends’, rings true in this case. Britain remains our neighbour, like the European Union is for Britain. We need each other” – German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel.
– ‘Not leaving Europe’ –
“I hope we will be out of the European Union, but we will take part in security cooperation and other forms of cooperation to recognise that while we are leaving the European Union, we are not leaving Europe, we are not giving up on European values” – former British prime minister David Cameron who called the referendum which led to Brexit.
– ‘Remains a friend’ –
“The United Kingdom remains a friend and ally and economic partner. … We’ll continue to look for ways to create closer trade ties and opportunities for better jobs and economic growth that benefits both of our countries and we will continue to engage as friends and allies” – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
– ‘Act as one’ –
“In these negotiations the Union will act as one and preserve its interests” – the EU’s other 27 member states.
– ‘New chapter’ –
“Today isn’t a good day. #Brexit marks a new chapter in our Union’s history, but we’re ready, we’ll move on, hoping UK remains (a) close partner” – European Parliament chief Antonio Tajani.
– ‘Building new walls’ –
“The politicians who fought for #Brexit were allowed to grow up in a free Europe. Today they are building new walls… History will show that Brexit is a tremendous mistake. It will create a lot of damage for both sides.” – Manfred Weber, head of European People’s Party (EPP), the biggest group in the European Parliament.
– ‘Door schtill open’ –
“Dear Brits, ze door is schtill open” – German daily Die Welt, in accented English.
– ‘Point of no return’ –
“The impossible dream is happening. Today we pass the point of no return,” – former UKIP leader and prominent “Leave” campaigner Nigel Farage, who tweeted a picture of the letter being handed over with the phrase “you’ve been triggered.”
– ‘Avoiding a messy divorce’ –
“The Netherlands are committed to avoiding a messy divorce and building another friendship” with Britain. “We want to prevent others from awarding themselves the biggest parts of the cake… Let’s stay calm, be realistic and negotiate” – Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders.
– ‘Netherlands will follow’ –
“A historic moment! Congratulations Britain, regaining national sovereignty! The Netherlands will follow in a few years time!” – Dutch Freedom Party MP Geert Wilders.
– ‘Path still unknown’ –
“It is a historic day that will mark Europe’s entry onto a path still unknown.” I hope that “European citizens will come out with advantages” – Portuguese Finance Minister Mario Centeno.
Britain launched the historic process of leaving the EU on Wednesday, saying there was “no turning back”, but its European partners were quick to warn of the difficult path ahead.A woman walks past a house where “Vote Leave” boards are displayed in Redcar, north east England on June 27, 2016 Britain’s historic decision to leave the 28-nation bloc has sent shockwaves through the political and economic fabric of the nation. It has also fuelled fears of a break-up of the United Kingdom with Scotland eyeing a new independence poll, and created turmoil in the opposition Labour party where leader Jeremy Corbyn is battling an all-out revolt. / AFP PHOTO
Nine months after the stunning vote for Brexit, Prime Minister Theresa May gave EU President Donald Tusk formal notification of Britain’s intention to withdraw from the 28-nation bloc.
The unprecedented move, just days after the EU celebrated its 60th birthday, leaves Britain deeply divided and has thrown a question mark over the future of the alliance.
“This is an historic moment from which there can be no turning back,” May told MPs, to cheers from members of her ruling Conservative party.
British ambassador Tim Barrow delivered the letter to Tusk triggering Article 50 of the EU’s Lisbon Treaty, starting the two-year countdown to Brexit.
“We already miss you,” Tusk said in Brussels.
But French President Francois Hollande struck a tough tone, warning that Brexit would be “economically painful” for Britain, the first country to leave the alliance.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel also rebuffed May’s call for negotiations on Britain’s withdrawal to run alongside talks on a future trade agreement.
Britain intends to leave Europe’s single market in order to control migration, but is hopeful a new trade deal can be struck before it leaves the EU by the latest at midnight on March 29, 2019.
Merkel said however that the divorce must come first — including tough talks on Britain’s financial contributions, as well as immigration.
“Only when this question is dealt with, can we, hopefully soon after, begin talking about our future relationship,” she said in Berlin.
The EU, which was forged from the ashes of World War II, is determined the Brexit deal will not encourage other countries to follow Britain out of the door.
May’s six-page letter struck a conciliatory tone and called for a “deep and special partnership” with the bloc, which Britain joined in 1973.
But some commentators saw a threat in her emphasis on the importance of Britain’s security ties.
She warned that failure to reach a new trade agreement would mean “cooperation in the fight against crime and terrorism would be weakened”.
– ‘Damage control’ –
Tusk is expected to issue draft guidelines for the negotiations on Friday, but the leaders of the other 27 EU nations will not meet until April 29 to confirm their joint approach.
The bloc’s priority is to maintain unity as it faces the departure of one of its largest members, against a backdrop of crises involving migration, terrorism and the rise of populism.
A spokesman for US President Donald Trump, who has described the Brexit vote as “smart”, said: “We want the UK to remain a strong leader in Europe.”
But May is battling to keep her divided nation together.
The Brexit vote was only won by a narrow 52-48 margin and Scotland’s nationalist government is now calling for a fresh referendum on independence.
May has said “now is not the time”, even if Scotland — and Northern Ireland — voted overwhelmingly to stay in the EU, but were outvoted by England and Wales.
In Edinburgh, 44-year-old computer consultant Mark Murphy said he had voted for Scotland to stay a part of Britain in a 2014 referendum but might now change his mind.
Brexit was “probably the daftest thing we’ve done as a nation for my entire life”, he said.
– ‘Implementation periods’ –
As with many divorces, negotiations with the EU could rapidly turn nasty over money.
The priority for Brussels is settling Britain’s outstanding bills, estimated at between 55 and 60 billion euros ($59-65 billion) — an early battle that could set the tone for the rest of the talks.
Both sides are also keen to see a reduction in tensions in Northern Ireland, which will have the UK’s only hard border with the EU.
Many business leaders are deeply concerned about May’s decision to leave Europe’s single market, a free trade area of 500 million people that represents Britain’s largest trading partner.
The Brexit vote sent the pound plunging and there are fears of what will happen if negotiations end without a new trade agreement in place.
The European Parliament’s chief negotiator, Guy Verhofstadt, said any transitional deal to work out the details of a trade agreement should be limited.
“We propose three years,” he said.
– ‘Dream come true’ –
Both sides have said they want an early agreement over the post-Brexit status of more than three million European nationals living in Britain.
May has said this will be conditional on a deal for the status of one million British expats in the EU.
Nicolas Hatton, a Frenchman with a British wife who leads a grassroots campaign for EU expatriates, said he wanted a deal “so that we can get on with our lives”.
Tens of thousands marched through London on Saturday demanding Britain stay in the EU, with one banner urging politicians to “stop this madness”.
But others were elated that Brexit was finally under way.
In Sunderland, a bastion of Brexit support in northeast England, former miner Tom Curras said: “I don’t believe that we should be dominated by other countries.”
Nigel Farage, the founder of the anti-immigration UK Independence Party (UKIP) and a key player in the Brexit campaign, celebrated in a pub near parliament.
“Today’s the day for me after 25 years of campaigning that the impossible dream came true,” he said — before a passerby heckled him as “a disgrace”
WORKERS in the governor's office Calabar were on Wednesday locked out of their offices on the instruction of the Cross River State Governor, Senator Ben Ayade at 7.33am when he arrived his office and found that most workers were yet to report for work.
L-R: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd left); Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Oluranti Adebule; Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Senator Olamilekan Adeola Solomon during the commissioning of the newly built Aboru-Abesan Link Bridge and adjourning roads in Church Street, Giwa Street, Victor Fagbemi Road, Ogunfayo Road, Ogundare Street, Salami Kazeem Street in Alimosho Local Government, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 L-R: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Oluranti Adebule; Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola during the commissioning of the newly built Aboru-Abesan Link Bridge and adjourning roads in Church Street, Giwa Street, Victor Fagbemi Road, Ogunfayo Road, Ogundare Street, Salami Kazeem Street in Alimosho Local Government, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.8 L-R: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Senator Ibrahim Kazure (Jigawa State); Senator Isiaka Adeleke (Osun State); Senator Ganiyu Solomon during the unveiling of Asiwaju's statue to commemorate the commissioning of the newly built Aboru-Abesan Link Bridge and adjourning roads in Church Street, Giwa Street, Victor Fagbemi Road, Ogunfayo Road, Ogundare Street, Salami Kazeem Street in Alimosho Local Government, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.The newly built and commissioned Aboru-Abesan Link Bridge in Alimosho Local Government, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.The newly built and commissioned Aboru-Abesan Link Bridge in Alimosho Local Government, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.The newly built and commissioned Aboru-Abesan Link Bridge in Alimosho Local Government, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (middle); Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (2nd right); Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right); Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Oluranti Adebule (2nd left); Special Adviser on Primary Health Care (Lagos), Dr. Olufemi Onanuga (left) the during the commissioning of the newly built Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Comprehensive Primary Health Care Centre at Church Street, Agbelekale in Agbado/Oke-Odo LCDA, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.: The newly built and commissioned Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Comprehensive Primary Health Care Centre at Church Street, Agbelekale in Agbado/Oke-Odo LCDA, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.
The European Parliament said in a draft position paper on Wednesday that Brexit can be revoked.
The draft, seen by Reuters on the day that Article 50 on Britain's leaving the European Union was invoked, also said there should be transitional arrangements to smooth the divorce but no more than three years.
London-based EU agencies, the European Banking Authority and the European Medicines Agency, must move as soon as practicably possible, the draft paper said.
The draft sets the red lines for the elected European Parliament on the conduct of divorce talks with Britain before a trade deal can be discussed.
The recognition by the lawmakers that Article 50 can be revoked was seen as a concession to strengthen the hand of Britons who never wanted to quit, in spite opposition from the EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier to making references to the reversibility of the process.
But the document, which needs the approval of the whole legislature next week, made it clear that in case Britons changed their mind they would not get a better deal than what they had so far in their relations with the EU.
The Parliament will have a final say on any deal struck with Britain.
The legislature's Brexit team, led by former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt, accepted that in case of Brexit there should be transitional arrangements to smooth the divorce, but stressed they cannot last more than three years and should also be "strictly limited" in their scope.
Negotiations on such transitional arrangements can start only after "substantial progress" is made on a withdrawal agreement that should include a Brexit bill, guarantees for citizens' rights and legal certainties for companies, the document said.
Britain should also recognise that the European Court of Justice, the EU's top court, will be the "competent authority for the interpretation and enforcement of the withdrawal agreement", a statement that may not go down well in
London, where many want a quick end of the ECJ powers over Britain.
The Brexit bill should include outstanding commitments to the EU budget and also "provision for off-balance sheet items, contingent liabilities and other financial costs that arise directly as a result of its withdrawal," the document said.
It also raised the prospect of a tab even higher than the 60 billion euros ($64.5 billion) figure circulated in past week.
•Edo State House of Assembly Speaker endorses initiative
By Dayo Adesulu
Basking in the euphoria of the successful hosting of the 2016 edition of International Widows' Day in Lagos, Felix King through his foundation, Felix King Foundation (FKF) has taken the initiative a notch higher with the plan to launch 'Abolish Widows Maltreatment' campaign in Benin, the Edo State capital on June 23, 2017.
The campaign, which has been endorsed by the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Dr. Justin Okonoboh, will kick off in Benin City on June 23, heavily supported by community advocacy groups, chiefs, leaders of thought, ambassadors and influencers within and outside the state. Two A-class Nigerian musicians (names withheld for now) are said to have crafted a soul-lifting theme song for the campaign, which will be debuting soon.
The campaign is scheduled to start as pilot from Edo State, then, move to other states with high cases of widows' maltreatment in Nigeria. Ostensibly, the motive behind the campaign is to create massive awareness and enlightenment on the unnecessary abuse and maltreatment of widows in the country.
In 2016, Felix King, was at the forefront of hosting the 2016 edition in Lagos with a theme "The Right of a Widow", which underscored the 2014 Supreme Court's judgment on the right of women to inheritance, care and association, hosted by Frank Edoho, host of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, while ace broadcaster, Adesuwa Onyenekwe, was on hand as moderator.
According to the President of Felix King Foundation, Felix King, widows' maltreatment could be abolished in Nigeria if the provisions of Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria as amended, which provides for the fundamental human rights of the citizens of Nigeria, are strictly adhered to.
"Section 34 (1) (a) of Chapter 4 provides thus: "Every individual is entitled to respect of his/her dignity and accordingly, no person shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment", he emphasized.
King stated that widowhood rites and rituals in most communities in Nigeria are clearly a gross violation of Section 34(1) (a) of Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution as amended. "A woman subjected to drinking the water used to bathe her deceased husband, had her head shaved and made to bathe on her husband's grave in the midnight, so as to prove her innocence of the death of her husband, has been made to suffer more inhuman degradation than can be imagined " he said.
International Widows' Day is a day set aside to recognize widows and their dreadful situations worldwide. But here in Nigeria, little or nothing is done on this day. Government, especially stands accused for being taciturn on widows' plight as they suffer dejection, disinheritance, deprivation and ejection from their homes.
The 'Abolish Widows Maltreatment' campaign seeks to redefine this as the Felix King Foundation takes the enlightenment advocacy to the rural communities where these atrocities are prevalent.
According to King, the community advocacy groups will help the campaign by way of engaging key decision makers such as chiefs, village heads, market women leaders, trade union groups and youth leaders in the communities.
Another strategy to be deployed is Liberty coins tagged widows Liberty Coin and are expected to be advocates of complete eradication of widows' maltreatment in the society.
A widow, who gave her name as Mrs. Abimbola Kola who affirmed that she has benefitted from the foundation, said Felix King Foundation, must be commended for giving succour to widows,.
According to her, "we are humans with blood running through our veins and I believe to abolish widows maltreatment is a collective responsibility of all Nigerians. Widowhood is not a crime". It is estimated that there are over 12 million widows in Nigeria, over half of them live in extreme poverty and are subjected to neglect in the society.
In 2011, International Widows' Day was declared by the United Nations and first celebrated on June 23, in an effort to empower widows and help them to regain their rights, which have long been ignored and violated'.
Other activities scheduled will be the empowerment of 74 disadvantaged widows through skill acquisition and business start-up grant.
Obscene chants from Sevilla fans targeting former favourite Sergio Ramos earned the La Liga team a one-match partial stadium closure, Spanish football authorities ruled on Wednesday.
The incidents took place at a highly charged January 16 La Liga encounter when Sevilla ended Real Madrid’s 40-match unbeaten streak at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.
It was the third game in 10 days between the sides including a home and away Copa del Rey clash decided by a dramatic late Ramos header.
In a volatile atmosphere Sevilla came from 1-0 down with five minutes to go to defeat Madrid 2-1 deep in injury time as passion from the terraces spilled over into hate chants against the charismatic Ramos.
Sevilla will have to close one stand as punishment.
The African Union Commission says it is "extremely appalled'' by the heinous attacks against African students in Noida and other cities in India.
The AU in a statement on Wednesday in Addis Ababa, obtained by NAN in Abuja, said it deplored the violence unleashed during the riot that started on Monday, targeting Africans of various nationalities, particularly Nigerians.
The Commission said the action had resulted in the loss of innocent lives and serious injuries as well as the displacement of many Africans from their normal places of residence, thereby putting their lives in serious danger.
"The Commission expresses its heartfelt condolence to the families of the deceased and wishes speedy recovery to all those who have sustained injuries. The Commission calls on the Indian authorities to provide all necessary support to the injured.
"The Commission welcomes the assurances by the Indian authorities to conduct a `fair and impartial' probe and urges the authorities to expedite the investigations in order to bring to justice the perpetrators of the attacks.''
The Commission recalled the long standing bonds of solidarity and cooperation that exist between Africa and India.
It called on the Indian authorities to take all necessary steps in order to ensure the safety and security of all African citizens currently living in the country.
"The Commission is deeply concerned by the increasing incidents of hate crime and xenophobia in some parts of the world and urges the concerned governments to take necessary steps to prevent these crimes.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has set up a committee to resolve outstanding issues between the executive and legislative arms of the government, Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said.
Mohammed told reporters after the meeting on Wednesday in Abuja that the executive is concerned about its deteriorating relationship with the National Assembly.
"The executive is also quiet worried and quiet concerned that the relationship between the two arms of government is not as smooth as it is supposed to be.
"In any democracy, it is a continuous struggle for balancing between the Executive and the Legislature because each of them is creatures of the law.
L-R; Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, Minister of Interior Lt Gen Abdulrahman Dambazzau, Minister of Education Malam Adamu Adamu, FCT Minister Alh Muhammad Musa Bello and Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed during the Federal Executive Council Meeting held at the Council Chamber State House Abuja.
"We must strive at all times to ensure that there is that balance, amity and smooth relationship.
"Just today at the Federal Executive Council meeting, this matter was discussed and a committee is already working on ensuring that we resolve all these outstanding issues.''
Newsmen report that the Senate on Tuesday suspended the confirmation of 27 Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)'s Resident Electoral Commission (REC), officers over what it described as President Muhammadu Buhari's refusal to sack the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu.
The upper chamber also on Tuesday summoned the chairman of the presidential committee on anti-corruption, Prof. Itse Sagay, whom they accused of making derogatory remarks against the Senate.
Sagay, who commented on the refusal of the senate to confirm the re-nomination of Ibrahim Magu as substantive chairman of the EFCC, was reported to have gone to the press and said that the `senate merely confirms'.
The Senate also turned back the comptroller-general of Customs, Hameed Ali, (an appointee of the President) for not appearing in Customs uniform.
Senators, by a voice vote, had directed him to return to the National Assembly on Wednesday, March 22, in proper uniform designated for the office of Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service.
The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education also summoned the Minister of Education to explain why the current Permanent Secretary of his Ministry, Jamila Shuara refused to appear before the House of over her extension of service.
Mohammed described the protest embarked upon by unions in his ministry as normal in any democratic environment.
He, however, appealed to the unions to show more understanding as the ministry was doing all it could to meet their demands if the nation's economy improved.
"It is not unusual for unions to call for the removal of ministers. Any minister should expect that.
"They are complaining about welfare but there is a limit to what government can do within the available resources.
"As much as we sympathise with them on the situation, the economy is simply not healthy enough to accommodate what is used to accommodate in the past.
"If anybody is concerned and worried about expenditures in my ministry, they should go and check because it is open.
"We have appealed to them several times but we met a culture that we cannot sustain. If and when the economy improves, we will look into some of the grievances that are genuine.
"We listen to them; they always meet with the Permanent secretary and directors. But once the resources are not there, there is little we can do. We will just continue to plead with them to be patient with us,'' he said.
Also speaking with the reporters, the Minister of Interior, Abdulrahma Dambazau, disclosed that the council approved N403million for the purchase of 15 water carrying vehicles for the Federal Fire Service to further revamp the fire service unit.
"Today's council approved the procurement of some water carrying vehicles for the Federal Fire Service, this is in an attempt to further revamp the federal fire service which has experienced dearth of equipment for a very long time and that with the challenges we have in terms of fire incidents all over the country.
"The last time I spoke I told you the government is making every effort to make sure that the fire service is revamped so that we have the necessary equipment, training and personnel to be able to face the challenges.
"Today as part of it FEC approved what is remaining of the 2016 budget, the procurement of 15 water tankers that have the capacity to be used as fighting trucks.
"This is costing the government N403million out of the budget that was appropriated in 2016.
"The total budget is about 5.5billion naira for the procurement of fire-fighting equipment and we have already procured a lot from that.''
Similarly, the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, told the correspondents that the council approved the ratification for the establishment of the West African Tax Administration forum.
According to her, forum is a platform to promote mutual agreement and cooperation among West African tax authorities.
"Nigeria is the host of this body but we have ratified the project. The effect of it is that there will be better information sharing and cooperation between countries within West Africa on tax administration. This is really part of our tax reform efforts.
"As you know Nigerians own properties in Ghana and other neigbouring countries, now for tax purposes they will be able to have access to that type of information.
"Linked to that is the directive of the FEC to the SGF to remind companies that there is an existing provision in the law that companies are supposed to have on their letter headed papers the names of their directors and their registered offices but what we have seen is that many bodies that are transacting business with government simply have the names of the company and no details of who the directors are.
"So for tax purposes it is quite difficult to trace them, so the SGF will be issuing a circular reminding agencies and ministries of government that it is the law and therefore they are at liberty not to treat any document that doesn't comply with the law.
"And equally the Accountant General is being advised that payment will only be effected to companies that are fully in compliance with the law just to make sure that all those who are doing business with government and making from government are paying the right taxes.''
Adeosun stated that the council also endorsed the 500 million Eurobond, saying that the National Assembly had already approved the Eurobond.
By Emmanuel Elebeke & Favour Ulebor Workers in the Federal Ministry of information and Culture on Wednesday protested non-payment of allowances and others as they called for Alhaji Lai Mohammed’s intervention.
The workers, who abandoned their duty posts, came out in their numbers, to drive home their demand for the quick intervention of the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.
The protesters, who chanted songs of displeasure and blocked the gate of the ministry, told reporters that they were subjected to work under poor conditions, delay of promotion arrears, non-payment of repatriation allowances and selective training of staff.
The protest took another dimension when they were stopped from entering the Office of the Minister at the Secretariat by the men of the Department of State Service and Police.
Some of the placards the staffs carried read: ‘Our welfare must be paramount. Minister, Permanent Secretary pay our 2016 Abuja carnival stipend. Pay our retirement, allowance. Enough is enough. Enough of the continuous silence. This impunity is too much. We have taken our destiny by our hands.
We work daily with little or no working materials. Withdraw the preliminary letter issued to sports officials.''
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Yakubu Dogara, has said the current face-off between the executive and the legislature is normal in democracy.
Dogara, who spoke to Senior Editors in Abuja on Wednesday, said the nation stands to benefit from it.
According to him, conflicts are a natural part of human beings and can be found even within the family unit.
"There will always be fractions. Where you have human and individual factors, even in a family, there is bound to be conflicts.
"In the relationship between the Legislature and the Executive, there will always be conflict. The only problem is that sometimes we cast conflicts as intricately bad,'' he said.
Dogara said sometimes conflicts were necessary for a nation, adding that where you had a collection of conformists, chances were that they would never make progress.
"For you to have innovation and progress, people must be free to disagree, and it is only in disagreeing that progress is made.''
He said that the most important issue was that leaders of all arms of government interpret the issues so that they could lead to the nation's progress.
He said current political leaders must realise that Nigerians made a lot of sacrifice to ensure the enthronement of the current government, thus all sides of the government must close ranks and deliver on the promises that the people had sacrificed so much.
"Conflicts yes, we may have conflicts, but it shouldn't endure to the level that it offsets the friendly relationship with the Executive which is necessary to deliver on the goals of governance, that is key.''
He said the House had always been supportive of the executive and always overcome party differences to ensure passage of key legislations in the interest of the country.
Dogara said the APC government had not disappointed Nigerians as it had strived to meet their expectations, especially in restoring security in the North East.
"This government, through various interventions has been able to ensure that the terrorists are not holding unto any spot of land. I believe this is one major thing that has given some hope to Nigerians.
"For the very first time, we are in a position to overcome this problem, and it is critical, even if it's for nothing else that our citizens in the Northeast down to Abuja can move around more freely than before.''
The Speaker also said the current government had made tremendous progress in tackling corruption as government officials now think twice before engaging in any corrupt act.
French President Francois Hollande says that the 27 remaining members of the European Union must enjoy "real unity" after Britain leaves the bloc, but also repeats his call for a multi-speed Europe.
Hollande stated this at a gathering of French residents in Jakarta during an official visit to Indonesia.
"And if we want to look at our future, it should be, first of all, real unity for the 27, but also with the possibility of going faster for some countries that so decide,'' Hollande said. "It happens that I speak while a president in the U.S. is questioning the decisions that were reached in the Paris Agreement on climate, while there are protectionist temptations,'' Hollande adds. "We should press forward … to implement the agreements and commitments that were made in Paris, but also press forward on trade," the French president says.
Mrs Martina Claus, Head of Market Development, German Engineering Federation, on Wednesday said Nigeria ranked fourth globally in the volume of soft drink sales recorded in 2016.
Claus spoke at the ongoing Third International Trade Exhibition on Agrofood, Plastics, Printing and Packaging in Lagos.
She said that the statistics on soft drinks sales were sourced from the Euromonitor International, a global market intelligence publisher.
The market developer said the statistics showed that 38.68 million litres of soft drinks were sold in Nigeria in 2016.
"This puts Nigeria behind only the United States (114.75), China (88.18) and Mexico (45.30) in the top markets ranking.
"Also, 1.98 million litres of alcohol was sold in Nigeria in 2016, while the total volume of milk products sold was 147 tons.
"Nigeria's fast-growing population brings with it a continuing demand for soft drinks, especially as the climate is quite hot.
"Urbanisation also drives demand for ready to drink soft drinks amongst busy, on-the-go consumers.
"Lack of potable water is largely responsible for the consumption of 36.08 million litres of bottle water in 2016,'' Claus explained.
According to her, the Nigerian food and beverage market remains viable for investment in spite of the challenges of high energy cost and volatile raw material prices.
Claus said that one of the avenues for attracting prospective investors was the Drinktec Trade Fair for the beverage and liquid food industry.
She said that this would take place in Munich, Germany from Sept. 11 to Sept. 15.
Claus said that the event was expected to attract no fewer than 1,600 exhibitors from over 70 countries and more than 70,000 trade visitors from all over the world.
Also, Mr Ahmed Omar, the Executive Director, Nigeria Institute of Packaging, said that there was need for Nigerians to take advantage of the huge opportunities provided by the food and beverage industry.
Omar urged small and medium scale businesses to collaborate on how to source, package and supply raw materials to big players in the global market in order to maximise their gains.
over 100 leading technology exhibitors from 20 countries are participating in the ongoing exhibition billed to end on March 30.
The exhibitors are from Austria, Benin, Brazil, China, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Italy, Kenya, Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, Turkey and the United Kingdom.
By Gbenga Olarinoye Osogbo – The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja 11, has advised the Pan Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere and other cultural groups within the Yoruba and Hausa tribes to refrain from making further inflammatory statements on the aftermath of the ethnic clash that engulfed in the ancient city saying such could cause reprisal attack. Ooni of Ife
He spoke during a condolence visit by leaders of Pan-Yoruba group, Afenifere, to him and victims of the crisis in the palace on Wednesday.
During the visit, the Yoruba leaders met with Yoruba and Hausa leaders and also distributed relief materials to victims.
The Ooni appealed to the Yoruba that they must understand that violent reactions will worsen the crisis.
He explained that persevering and admitting any alleged wrongdoing against Yoruba doesn’t translate to being weak.
He also urged youths in the ancient city to use their strength for productive activities rather than violence.
He said, “The unity of this nation is very important and we must all defend it. We must all ensure peaceful co-existence. Painfully, the misfortune has happened but we just have to allow peace to reign. We cannot settle violence with violence. We all should persevere and realise that people of different tribes live in other parts of the country. It is patience that we need to get this case resolved.
“I have communicated with necessary authorities in the police force over the matter. There is a unique co-existence among people of different tribes and religions here and we must maintain that model.
“We only know the beginning of a war, nobody knows the end. I plead with Afenifere and other groups to let peace reign so that the crisis will not degenerate.”
He lamented that youths were mostly affected in the crisis, adding that yoruba elders should play reconcilatory roles.
He added, “Youths should not allow this issue be turned to a political one. They should be careful and not allow this issue to be politicised. We should remember that most of these politicians don’t come to Sabo to render assistance until the misfortune that happened.”
Speaking earlier, one of the leaders of the group, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, accused the police of being biased.
He explained that it was wrong to arrest majority of Ile-Ife indigenes.
He said, “We are not happy with the crisis. The reason for the clash is still surprising because for over forty years that Yoruba and Hausa have been co-habiting, there have not been any record of violence between the two tribes.
“Even during Ife/Modakeke crisis, nobody attacked the Hausas in Ife. The Police are to be blamed for this crisis. They caused the crisis. They arrested only Yoruba people after the crisis. It points to the fact that the arrest was pre-planned. The Police appears to be against the Yoruba and the Inspector General of Police has said he doesn’t have any apology.
“What Afenifere is saying again is that the arrest is one-sided. Some of the people that died in the clash are Yoruba and their houses torched. Nonetheless, we are here to sympathise with both the Yoruba and Hausa residents of Ife.”
Among the delegation to Ooni’s palace are the former secretary to the federal government Chief Olu Falae, Spokesperson of the organization, Yinka Odumakin and foremost Ife son, Chief Iyiola Omisore among other notable members of Afenifere. Attachments area
The University of Jos (UniJos) has dissolved the institution's Students Union Government (SUG).
This is contained in a statement issued in Jos on Wednesday by Mr Abdullahi Abdullahi, UniJos Principal Assistant Registrar, Information.
According to the statement, the university has constituted a five-man Caretaker Committee in place of the SUG.
The statement quoted the UniJos Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sebastian Maimako, giving reasons for the dissolution to include protest by the SUG against the new school charges of N45,000 as directed by the Federal Government.
Other reasons, the statement said, included the SUG's decision to convene a meeting of students without due approval from the Directorate of Students Affairs, which resulted in a protest with the students carrying placards.
It added that the SUG officials had similarly mobilised students to attend the stakeholders meeting where parents were shouted down.
"They externalised an internal issue, affecting the university without following the acceptable laid down procedures for conflict resolution in the university.
"They were also intimidating and issuing threats to law abiding students, including fresh students who were willing to comply with the payment of the new school charges.
"The SUG officials also maligned principal officers of the university, including the VC on various media platforms.
"Using the social media, they misinformed members of the public on the action taken by the university authorities in the process of implementing the new school charges," the statement read in part.
According to the statement, management had on several occasions invited the SUG officials to dialogue on the matter of the harmonised school charges for federal universities, but they remained intransigent and refused to see reasons.
It added that the students, by all the actions taken by the dissolved SUG officials, clearly indicated their desire to disrupt the smooth running of the institution.
The vice chancellor, in the statement, therefore, directed the dissolved SUG officials to handover all properties belonging to the union in their possession with immediate effect.
Maimako, thereafter, announced the constitution of a five-man Caretaker Committee of the SUG with Wuyep Nansar as Chairman.
It also announced Timdi Nkat as Secretary, Yilmazaka Gershinen, Idi Ishaku and Ekweozor Nzube as members.
According to the statement, the vice chancellor charged the committee to maintain the spirit of discipline and dedication in line with the university's motto.
Nansar, on behalf of the other members of the committee, promised their readiness to put in their best to contribute to the peace and progress of the institution.
He said they would use their wealth of experience to work with the students, management and all stakeholders for the benefit of the system.
National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday poured accolades on the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode over his sterling performance in the last 22 months, saying that the Governor has made him proud.
Speaking while commissioning network of roads, link bridge and health centre in Alimosho area of the State as part of activities to mark his 65th birthday, Tinubu said the achievements of Ambode in office was a reflection of a Governor who is not only a thinker but a doer, and expressed satisfaction that he was delivering on the promises to the people.Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi; wife of Osun State Governor, Mrs. Sherifat Aregbesola; the celebrant, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; his wife, Senator Oluremi; wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode and Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola during Asiwaju's 65th Birthday celebration at his Bourdillon residence, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.
He said: “Akinwunmi Ambode has reflected that clearly here today. I want to say thank you because experience is a great teacher and I am experienced. I am on the spot and I have watched things in Lagos since my tenure ended.
“I was worried hell when you (Ambode) took over, not about your credibility, character or capacity, but because however wise or smart a man is, if there is no resources to back the ideas, production would be zero, progress would be zero.
“When you (Ambode) took over, I know you inherited a burden of debt. The debt profile of Lagos was high, I was wondering how you will reengineer and face the challenges to make progress.
“Today, I can see your report card, you have scored well, and you have shown prudency especially in the judicious use of resources of the State.
“You didn’t disappoint us. Ambode is silently achieving, meticulously planning, religiously executing and brilliantly giving results for Lagos State," the former Lagos governor said.
Tinubu said all over Lagos, the results of good governance was being felt by the people, and wished Ambode sound health and wisdom to continue to lead the State.
“All over Lagos, we are seeing the results. At Oshodi, on our way down here, you can see what is happening there, that place is a construction site. It used to be a den of robbers but what is going on there now is developmental activities for the benefit of the entire country.
“Ambode is very quiet, very peaceful, not a noise maker, but he is delivering on the job.
“Today, you (Ambode) have given me a good birthday present. This is a great opportunity for me to be very proud again. Therefore, if we can continue in this direction of infrastructural development in the manner Governor Ambode is moving, Lagos will soon match international states or country anywhere in the world” Tinubu said.
In his remarks, Governor Ambode described the event as a historic day in the life of the people of Alimosho and the State in general.
He recalled his visit to the Aboru area in March 2016, saying that aside the state of the road which was totally unacceptable, there were reports of series of deaths and fatal accidents caused by the presence of a valley, adding that he immediately directed that work should commence in the area.
"Exactly one year after, we are here to keep our promise to the good people of Aboru, Abesan and other communities and reaffirm our commitment that no community or area will be left behind. Every Lagosian counts. We are a government of inclusion," the Governor said.
He said the 480 metres bridge linking Aboru to Abesan, both in the Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council of Alimosho Local Government Area would significantly ease the burden of travel between the two communities by reducing travel time and eliminating the risks associated with its non-existence.
Governor Ambode said aside the Bridge, additional adjoining inner roads to create an efficient road network that will aid connectivity permanently were also constructed.
He listed the roads to include Church Street, Giwa Street, Victor Fagbemi Road, Ogunfayo Road, Ogundare Street, Salami Kazeem, all totalling 5.5km with drainage, walkways and street lights adding that the road network would ease the pressure on the Abeokuta Expressway and links residents with Iyana Ipaja, LASU-Iba Expressway.
Governor Ambode also flagged off the commissioning the construction of a network of roads within the boundaries of Lagos and Ogun States, saying that it was in honour of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as the brain behind the 21st century Lagos.
He expressed optimism that the roads which have been identified for immediate construction and rehabilitation would complete the new face of Alimosho constituency, saying that work would commence next week.
He listed the roads to include Ikola Road with Odo Obasanjo Bridge – 6.4km (from Ipaja/Command to Ilo River); Ogunseye Road – 1.75km (from Ajasa/Command to Ikola Road);Oko Filling Road – 1.5km (from AIT to Ilo River); Osenatu Ilo road – 620m (from Ibari Road to Ilo River); Amikanle road – 3.1km (from AIT to Ogunseye Road); Aina Aladi road – 1.9km (from AIT to Ilo River) and Aiyetoro Road with a bridge– 1.4km (from New Market/Ishefun Road intersection to Ilo River).
He however appealed to the residents of the communities to cooperate with the contractors so as to enable them deliver the network of roads not later than the scheduled completion date.
Also, State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Senator representing Lagos West at the Senate, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola said it was obvious that Governor Ambode started well and is doing well, and solicited the cooperation of the people to engender further dividends of democracy and good governance.
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